Chicago Cubs News: Cubs hold on, fend off late rally from Nationals

The Chicago Cubs added on to their lead late, and it was a good thing. They needed all those runs to hold on to the 5-4 win over the Nationals.

Heading into this series with the Washington Nationals, not many fans seemed very confident the Chicago Cubs would be competitive.  A leadoff home run from Willson Contreras, magnificent defense from Javier Baez and a strong effort from the bullpen looked like the Cubs had it locked up as they headed to the bottom of the ninth up 5-0. A small heart attack and four runs later, the Cubs were victorious–but barely. But a win’s a win as they Cubs climbed to two games over .500.

Even with a record that many consider subpar, the Cubs are still in a good place to make the playoffs this year. The way it is now, it would seem unlikely for the Cubs to get a Wild Card berth with the way the NL West is going. But even with that, there’s more faith in this Cubs team than most have in the Brewers as many feel they’ll pull ahead eventually for the division.

With the soreness in Addison Russell‘s shoulder, the Cubs recalled Jeimer Candelario yesterday and sent Dylan Floro back to Iowa. The Cubs had been carrying nine pitchers in the bullpen until then. Of course, had yesterday’s game gone extra innings, they had only one pitcher left in Felix Pena who hadn’t been in the game. Also, Jason Heyward has fallen from the final starting spot in the outfield for the All-Star Game. So get to Cubs.com and vote!

These stories and more you might have missed:

‘Cubs fend off late Nationals rally in win’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs still in great shape to make the playoffs’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Candelario joins Cubs; Heyward out of ASG’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs take the fight to East-leading Nationals’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Esurance All-Star Game Ballot’ – MLB.com

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